Red blood cells
B12 contributes to normal red blood cell formation.
Vitamin B12: Energy, Blood and Nerves
Why the body needs vitamin B12, who is more likely to lack it and which foods provide it.
Educational guide · Reviewed 26 July 2026What is vitamin B12 and why do we need it?
Vitamin B12 is needed to make healthy red blood cells and DNA, and to support normal nervous-system function.
B12FishEggsDairyFortified foods
Red blood cells · nervous system · DNA
What it does for the body.
Nervous system
It supports normal neurological and psychological function.
Energy metabolism
B12 contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism and reduced tiredness when intake is adequate.
When to pay particular attention
Needs are not identical.
Age, life stage, activity and the rest of the diet can change what deserves attention.
- Vegans and some vegetarians
- Older adults, who may absorb less B12
- People with gastrointestinal conditions or surgery affecting absorption
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Food first.
Fish, shellfish, meat, eggs and dairy naturally contain B12. Fortified foods and supplements are important sources for people who avoid animal foods.
How do we measure it?
One value. Three useful views.
Per 100 g
A standard basis for comparing different foods and pack sizes.
Per serving
The quantity associated with a stated serving. Serving sizes can differ.
Per package
The calculated total when the entire package is the relevant amount.
We show where every number comes from.
Diplomats Product Nutrition
The value belongs to the exact product, recipe and measurement basis shown. We present it as the product’s number.
Reference Nutrition Data
A scientific food database provides a range for a comparable fish. We mark it with an asterisk and never present it as a laboratory result for the product.
Nutrition Knowledge
Primary health and food-science sources explain what a nutrient does, who should pay attention and how the number is used.
What is vitamin B12 and why do we need it?
Vitamin B12 is needed to make healthy red blood cells and DNA, and to support normal nervous-system function.
Why does vitamin b12: energy, blood and nerves matter?
Red blood cells: B12 contributes to normal red blood cell formation. Nervous system: It supports normal neurological and psychological function. Energy metabolism: B12 contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism and reduced tiredness when intake is adequate.
Can a value be assumed from the fish species?
No. Diplomats separates general food education from facts verified for a particular recipe, serving and product.
What does “per 100 g” mean?
It is a standard comparison basis. It lets visitors compare products of different pack and serving sizes using the same amount of food.
How are products recommended?
The Product Finder combines product nutrition, flavour, format and the preferences you select to find the closest match.
Primary health and food-safety sources used to review this guide.
Apply the knowledge.
Compare product nutrition on the same per 100 g basis and choose what suits your meal.
Compare product nutritionPut it on the table.
Explore serving ideas and practical meal contexts connected to Diplomats products.
Explore recipesSee the knowledge in practice.
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